go separate ways

USAGE SUMMARY

'go separate ways' is correct and is commonly used in written English.
It is usually used to refer to a situation where two or more people or groups part ways, usually when they have finished working together or disagreeing on something. Example: After a heated discussion, the two sides decided to go separate ways.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

Politics and religion should go separate ways".

The New York Times

We both felt it was best to go separate ways.

The New York Times - Sports

How did they come to go separate ways?

Harvard University

A complicating factor is that control of the two houses of parliament could go separate ways.

Independent

The brothers may go separate ways once Stanford's tournament run ends.

The New York Times - Sports

After that, they could either commit to a product development project or go separate ways.

The New York Times - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

Mr. Perot and E.D.S. went separate ways.

The New York Times

The rappers went separate ways as the 2000s ended.

The New York Times - Arts

Wal-Mart and Charoen Pokphand went separate ways in 1995.

The New York Times

After the show, band members went separate ways.

The New York Times - Arts

Instead, they have pretty much gone separate ways.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "go separate ways", ensure the context clearly indicates who or what is diverging. This phrase is most effective when the subject is plural or can be understood as a collective.

Common error

Avoid using "go separate ways" when one party unilaterally decides to end a relationship or arrangement. The phrase implies a mutual agreement or understanding, even if one party is more enthusiastic about the separation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go separate ways" functions as a phrasal verb indicating the termination of a relationship, partnership, or shared path. It suggests a parting of directions or a divergence of interests, as exemplified by Ludwig's numerous examples showing its use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Wiki

16%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "go separate ways" is a common and correct phrasal verb used to describe the end of a relationship, partnership, or shared path. It's considered neutral in tone and is frequently found in news and media, though its use extends to various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and provides numerous examples illustrating its diverse applications. For alternative phrasing, consider "part company" or "take different paths". Just remember to use it when there is a mutual agreement or understanding that the parties are separating.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

part company

This alternative emphasizes the ending of an association or partnership.

split up

This phrase usually refers to the ending of a romantic relationship or partnership.

break up

Similar to "split up", this typically refers to the dissolution of a romantic relationship.

go different directions

This alternative highlights the divergence in paths or goals.

take different paths

This highlights the adoption of contrasting routes or strategies.

dissolve ties

This implies a formal or official severing of connections or relationships.

cease collaboration

This formally describes the termination of a cooperative effort.

sever relations

This suggests a complete and often acrimonious end to a relationship.

disband

This term often applies to groups or organizations that cease to function as a unit.

branch off

This describes diverging from a main path or group, often in a more literal, physical sense.

FAQs

What does "go separate ways" mean?

The phrase "go separate ways" means to end a relationship, partnership, or association and to proceed independently. It often implies a mutual decision or at least an acceptance by both parties that they will no longer continue together.

When is it appropriate to use "go separate ways"?

It's appropriate to use "go separate ways" when describing the end of a relationship, business partnership, or any situation where individuals or groups decide to no longer continue on the same path. It's suitable when the separation is relatively amicable or mutually understood.

What are some alternatives to saying "go separate ways"?

You can use alternatives like "part company", "split up", or "take different paths" depending on the context.

Is "go separate ways" formal or informal?

"Go separate ways" is generally considered a neutral phrase suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While it may appear more frequently in news and media, it's also appropriate in business settings or casual conversations.